A recent study from the University of Sydney highlights significant health risks associated with putting toddlers to sleep with a bottle, linking the practice to increased dental cavities and early childhood obesity. Published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health, the research analysed data from over 700 children in Western Sydney’s Healthy Smiles Healthy Kids study, which has tracked participants since birth.
The study revealed that more than 30% of two-year-old children were still bottle-fed to sleep. Those who had this practice were found to be almost twice as likely to be overweight in their early years. Additionally, these children experienced nearly double the instances of dental decay compared to their peers.
Heilok Cheng, the study’s lead author, emphasised that parents often do not recognise the potential health risks of bottle feeding at nap and bedtime. Current Australian health guidelines recommend transitioning children to cups by six months and discontinuing bottle use by 12 months of age. Furthermore, it is advised that bottle feeding in bed is discouraged at any age, as common drinks for toddlers—such as cow’s milk and formula—contain sugars that enhance the risk of tooth decay.
Cheng observed that caregivers tend to use a bottle at bedtime to soothe or calm a restless child, rather than in response to hunger. This practice can lead to overfeeding, contributing to unhealthy weight gain. She stressed the importance of supporting families to break this habit, aiming for healthier futures for upcoming generations.
Terry Slevin, CEO of the Public Health Association of Australia, noted that the study underscores pressing public health challenges in the country. He pointed out that obesity has now surpassed tobacco as the leading cause of preventable diseases in Australia, with one in four children classified as overweight. Slevin called for urgent action from the Federal Government, advocating for stronger regulations on toddler food labelling and marketing of formulas to assist parents in making informed choices.
Overall, the findings indicate a critical need for awareness and education regarding the health implications of bottle-feeding practices, particularly at bedtime, to mitigate risks such as obesity and dental issues in young children.